Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas denounced Hamas in harsh terms and demanded that it release the remaining Israeli hostages. In a fiery Tuesday speech, Abbas called Hamas “sons of dogs” and blamed the organization for the destruction inflicted upon the Gaza Strip.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has called Hamas “sons of dogs,” demanding the release of the remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza and the disarmament of the militant group.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called on Hamas on Wednesday to lay down arms and hand the running of Gaza to his Palestinian Authority, part of efforts to answer international doubts over the authority's role at a key moment for the region.